BEIJING is considering implementing a new initiative which grants foreign tourists visa-free access to the Chinese capital for up to 72 hours.

Earlier this week, China Daily reported that the city’s authorities were mulling over waiving visa requirements for international travellers, albeit for a maximum period of three days, to boost inbound tourism.

If approved, the policy will be similar to visa-free schemes already in place in Shanghai (allowing stays of up to 48 hours) and Hainan (up to 21 days for tour groups).

"Shanghai and neighboring cities such as Hangzhou and Wuxi have benefited greatly (since Shanghai introduced a visa waiver for transit visitors), as foreign tourists are able to travel around during the 48-hour stay," Jiang Yiyi, director, China Tourism Academy international tourism development institute, was quoted as saying.